Stunning 65-Gallon Reef Tank by John Coppolino | ReefKeeping

full tank shot of: Stunning 65-Gallon Reef Tank by John Coppolino | ReefKeeping
reefkeeping 2004

Tank Specifications

Volume: 65 Gallons / 246 Liters

Dimensions (L × W × H):
36.0" × 18.0" × 24.0"
91.4cm × 45.7cm × 61.0cm

Equipment List

No equipment information available

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve good aquascaping in my reef tank?

Begin with the largest pieces of live rock you can find, and arrange them to create depth and visual interest. Avoid stacking rocks simply as piles; instead, look for irregular shapes that can create caves and ledges for fish to explore.

What type of substrate should I use in a reef tank?

Use a shallow bed of sand, like Southdown sand, which promotes beneficial bacteria growth while still allowing for easy maintenance and access to the bottom of the tank.

What are some tips for designing an aesthetically pleasing tank?

Focus on the natural look and distribute corals and rocks to create both height and depth, ensuring that light reaches all parts of the tank. Consider pairing contrasting textures and colors to make features pop.

What type of filtration system is best for a reef tank?

A combination of biological filtration using live rock and a protein skimmer is ideal. Additionally, using a micron filter sock on your drain can help catch detritus before it breaks down.

How often should I perform water changes in my reef tank?

Aim for a 15-gallon water change every two weeks to maintain healthy water parameters and remove accumulated waste.

What is the best way to maintain water clarity in a reef tank?

Utilize activated carbon in a filter, and perform regular maintenance such as changing the filter socks and cleaning the skimmer cup bi-weekly to ensure optimal water clarity.

What are the ideal water parameters for a reef tank?

Maintain calcium levels between 380-420 mg/l, alkalinity at 8-10 dKH, specific gravity of 1.025-1.026, and temperature between 78-81°F. PH should be maintained between 7.7 - 8.1.

How can I stabilize pH fluctuations in my reef tank?

You can help stabilize pH by running the lighting schedule for your frag tank opposite that of your main display tank, which also contributes to temperature stability.

What type of lights should I use for my SPS corals and clams?

Use double-ended metal halide bulbs, as they concentrate light effectively. A combination of 10K metal halide bulbs with actinic VHO lighting works well to promote coral growth and enhance color.

What is a suitable photoperiod for a reef tank with SPS corals?

For display tanks, you could run actinics for around 13 hours and halides for 10 hours, while staggering the actinic light timings for frag tanks can help manage pH and temperature fluctuations.

What kind of calcium and alkalinity supplementation should I use?

Utilize a calcium reactor combined with a custom Nilsen reactor for top-off, and occasionally dose with a two-part additive to manage levels more effectively.

Why are different pumps important for circulation in a reef tank?

Using multiple pumps allows for chaotic water movement, which helps prevent stagnant areas in the tank and encourages healthy growth in SPS corals.

How often should I feed my fish in a reef tank?

Feed them two to three times daily during the week and up to five times a day on weekends, offering a high-quality mix of pellet and frozen foods.

What method should I use to feed my regal angelfish?

Use a turkey baster to target feed, ensuring the regal angel gets enough food while allowing faster eaters to scavenge the leftovers.

← Back to Tanks